For Many Veterans, Life After Service Could Be Easier

Military service is a difficult and complex job, but there are indications that the transition back to civilian life can be even tougher. While the threat of death or injury is greatly reduced, the Military Times highlights how the labyrinths of paperwork and subtle change can make life very difficult for many veterans. The situation is improving for veterans. Through the use of technology and other tools, the transition to civilian life is becoming smoother and easier to navigate. However, for many veterans, there are still huge issues at play, starting with their healthcare.

Veteran health

Veterans are impacted by disability to a greater level than the general populace. This is a result of the sacrifices they have made in the face of danger, and it’s something that the VA provides extensively for through their healthcare schemes. Unfortunately, many veterans face risk above and beyond even those faced in the line of duty. There are increasing numbers of military medical malpractice claims being lodged against the Pentagon and the VA, arising from care either in the field or in civilian facilities in the USA. These claims are now totaling over $2 billion according to Bloomberg Government – an indication of the sheer volume of these claims. More needs to be done to protect veterans, many of whom are often diagnosed with conditions like PTSD which makes it difficult for them to obtain proper care. One avenue is through private legal support and pro-military pro bono attorneys, who are doing a lot for veterans who have the resources.

The housing hole

Even for veterans who have received proper healthcare and have not been abused or mistreated in the course of treatment, problems are found in the housing system. While the VA provides large loans to help finance property purchasing, not every veteran has access to this. In fact, veterans form one of the single largest demographic groups when it comes to homeless Americans – according to End Homelessness, 21 in every 10,000 veterans are homeless, and Military.com figures outline that these numbers are rising. More schemes need to be put in place to help homeless heroes.

Suicide epidemic

Unsurprisingly, given the challenges facing veterans, suicide rates have never been higher. Statistics reported by American Progress indicate that 20 veterans die by suicide every single day, on average. This is reaching epidemic levels and constitutes rates higher than many other demographics. Veterans are receiving more cutting-edge treatment for mental health conditions impacting them, like PTSD, but more can, and should, be done. There is a clear connection between the trauma of war and mental health illness, and this is something to be explored as a priority in healthcare.

The contrast between battleground and home is jarring for veterans. The agency they receive outside of the armed services can be difficult to accustom to. The results of this are being seen every day in challenges facing veterans, and will need to be tackled assertively in the future by society as a whole.